Summer is off to a good start in the City of Kalona, according to the City Administrator’s report.  At their regular meeting June 19, Ryan Schlabaugh listed for the City Council many things that have been going “very, very well,” including the Kalona Days event over the weekend, construction of the Student-Built home, participation in townball, and use of the city pool.

During the business meeting, the council passed second, third, and final readings of an ordinance amending solid waste fees.  The rate will be raised $1 per user per month.  In a related motion, the council approved extending the city’s current garbage and recycling contracts with Johnson County Refuse for five additional years, until June 30, 2028.

The council approved changing the title and job description for Heather Trimpe from Utility Billing Clerk to Deputy City Clerk.  Schlabaugh explained that the finance committee reviewed this change, and that it will more accurately reflect the work Trimpe is doing for the city.  The adjustment will not create an additional position nor leave a job vacancy.

Finally, the council approved the 2023-2024 Budgeted Payroll Matrix, which provides a 6% pay increase across the board for city employees.  Schlabaugh said this was in line with what Washington County was doing for its employees.  Pay rates for library employees were also approved in this action.